Andrew Carnegie
Anti-Imperialist

Objective: To advocate against the annexation of the Philippines

Occupation: Owner of Carnegie Steel Company, Vice President of American Anti-Imperialism League, Philanthropist

Position on Issue:
  • Americanization of the Filipinos is unconstitutional because it is defying the Declaration of Independence's philosophy of "consent of the governed."
  • If annexed, the Philippines wouldn't even be a true part of the American democracy; the new "citizens" would not be given American rights.
  • The frustrated Filipinos would surely rebel.
  • The Filipinos are unassimilable to the United States.
  • The Philippines would not be profitable.
  • The annexation of the Philippines would only overextend and weaken the American empire.
  • The United States is in no position to rival the greatest world powers (i.e. Britain, France) in colonial conflicts abroad.

Reasons for Interest in Topic: As a figure in the American society and economy, it is in my best interest to lead the country in the right way, preferably towards a more isolationist path. I am also an active member of the American Anti-Imperialism league.

Allies: Mark Twain and Samuel Gompers are both in the American Anti-Imperialism League. Therefore, they would not support the annexation of the Philippines as well.

References:
"Andrew Carnegie." United States History. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h981.html>.
Carnegie, Andrew. "Distant Possessions: The Parting of the Ways." Home Page. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://web.viu.ca/davies/h324war/carnegie.distant.1898.htm>.
Nasaw, David. Andrew Carnegie. New York: Penguin, 2007. Print.